Discovery Series Ornament – New Orleans
Discovery Series Ornament – New Orleans is an espresso mug for a city that has never received ornaments from previous collections. And it’s a shame because New Orleans has a lot to offer! It was founded in 1718 by French colonists, and as a key port city at the mouth of the Mississippi River, it became a melting pot of cultures, including French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences, shaping its unique identity. The city’s significance grew as it became part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, marking a pivotal moment in American expansion. New Orleans’ storied past is also marked by its role in the Civil War, where it was the largest city in the Confederacy and the first to be captured by Union forces in 1862. This city, resilient through time, is renowned for its historic architecture, jazz music, and the annual celebration of Mardi Gras, all echoing its diverse and dynamic heritage.
– The tram on the front of the ornament is a reference to the New Orleans streetcar system. It is a historic and iconic mode of transportation that offers a unique way to explore the city. Established in the 19th century, streetcars are notable for their vintage charm, and many of them date back to the early 1900s. Unlike most North American cities that modernized their transit systems, New Orleans has preserved its traditional streetcars, which glide beneath grand live oaks and past beautiful historic mansions. The system features several lines, including the famous St. Charles line, which is recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating streetcar lines in the world.
– The mask reminds us about Mardi Gras. It is a vibrant and cheerful celebration that draws millions of visitors each year, culminating in a colorful spectacle of parades, music, and elaborate costumes. The festivities, steeped in rich cultural traditions, feature dazzling floats, lively brass bands, and the iconic throwing of beads and trinkets, creating an electric atmosphere that envelops the city. Masks are worn to add an element of mystery and intrigue, allowing participants to embrace the spirit of revelry and anonymity.
– I liked how designers incorporated the Starbucks cup inside the small picture of the steaming coffee mug on the front. My understanding is that these are New Orleans-Style Beignets next to the mug. These deep-fried doughnuts, typically dusted with powdered sugar, are a beloved treat often enjoyed with a cup of café au lait, especially at renowned spots like Café du Monde
– Music in New Orleans is a vibrant reflection of the city’s rich cultural heritage, featuring a wide array of genres that shape its unique sound. Renowned as the birthplace of jazz, the city celebrates legendary musicians like Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton, whose innovative contributions have profoundly impacted this iconic genre. Beyond jazz, New Orleans pulses with the lively rhythms of blues, zydeco, and brass band music, often heard spilling out from bustling clubs, street corners, and during energetic festivals like the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
